New - New York suburb girl now living in the country of NC!

Hey everyone! I am originally from New York, where I was surrounded by humans. Lots of humans. And I mean LOTS. I now live in my own house that is right next to a pasture full of cows (which are much more pleasant sometimes than human neighbors!). I have an 11 year old son, 5 year old Bernese Mountain Dog and an almost 2 year old German Shepherd. My son and I have decided that we are going to raise our own chickens! We made a long list of different breeds that we found and have decided to go with Silkies this year! We are in the process of building an extended run for them, we have one coop so far and will be adding another one to give them an extra space. We are learning as we are going, so any information you have for us, we will gladly accept it!

Silkies are a very popular breed however, they are extremely difficult to sex before 4-5 mos. of age, and sometime not till they crow or lay eggs. I mention this because buying young chicks will be quite a gamble unless you don't mind having males.

Raising poultry will be an exciting hobby for you and your son! Just a word of caution, if your dogs haven't been around chickens, they shouldn't be allowed to get too close until you've had a chance to thoroughly evaluate how they will behave. We hear way too many stories of the family dog attacking the family chickens (not to say that your's will...just a heads-up is all).

As you have already received some great advice and links, I will just wish you all the best.

I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun. Unlike non chicken loving friends, family and colleagues, BYC’ers never tire of stories or pictures that feature our feathered and non feathered friends

Raising poultry will be an exciting hobby for you and your son! Just a word of caution, if your dogs haven't been around chickens, they shouldn't be allowed to get too close until you've had a chance to thoroughly evaluate how they will behave. We hear way too many stories of the family dog attacking the family chickens (not to say that your's will...just a heads-up is all).

Best of luck to you!

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I didn't plan on letting the dogs get near the chickens when they free roam. Love my dogs, but I now also love my chickens! I've let them meet the chicks through a barrier but I don't plan on allowing them to be free at the same time. My dogs have a huge out door kennel they romp in, or they stay inside or secured on my porch. If they are free, I am out there and I can promise my chickens won't be out at the same time!

Silkies are a very popular breed however, they are extremely difficult to sex before 4-5 mos. of age, and sometime not till they crow or lay eggs. I mention this because buying young chicks will be quite a gamble unless you don't mind having males.

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We have 3 Silkies now and have 2 more coming. We did end up getting a confirmed pullet Wyandotte. We have a friend who own a farm who will take any roosters I get from the straight pull silkies/sizzles I will have.